Greetings! 

 

The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Cearley

Lead Pastor of Congregational Life

 

Dear Friends,

The newest edition of The Montview Messenger is on its way to you. In it you will find thoughts from the leadership team, wonderful updates from our program staff, brief bios of Montview's newest members and information about the upcoming Fall season at Montview. Three beautifully written articles highlight three beloved Montview members. It is beautifully formatted with pictures that tell the story of Montview. As I read through the Messenger I was struck again how lucky we are in this community. 
 
Our staff and members (long time and new) are treasures that deserve to be held dear to all of us. As we move into a busy Fall season at church, take time to notice those you see at worship, in classes and at special church events. Speak to people you don't know. Ask the names of acquaintances, make a new friend, appreciate the variety of the people who come to Montview, offer a prayer for someone on our prayer list.
 
Receive the gift of community that is Montview. Celebrate the God-centered space that the book of James invites us to find. Be a blessing to someone you meet.

In faith and love,

Cindy  

 

The Rev. Ian Gregory Cummins
Lead Pastor of Spiritual Life

 

Hi Everyone,

Here's the Lectio Divina text for this week:
"You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God's righteousness. Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls." - The Letter of James 1: 19-21

There is much to be angry about in our world. We see or read about injustices being committed, people being hurt, lives being torn apart. What do we do with the anger that wells up within us? There is a way to use anger in positive and loving ways. But it isn't easy. Anger has a quality to it that can quickly consume us. Like a wildfire, it has such incredible power that it can quickly grow out of control. James tells us to slow down. Listen. And 'welcome with meekness the implanted word' within us. Maybe he means that when we are angry with the injustices of the world, it is then that we must be especially careful to stay grounded in God's love - a love that is large enough to hold our anger; a love that is wise enough to show us the way forward; a love that is powerful enough to save souls.
 

Grace and goodness,

 

Ian

 
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